"Our defining strength, and the reason people have come to rely on the Good Food Guide, is the independence of our critics. Our reviewers arrive at restaurants unannounced and pay for their own meals. We're stringent when it comes to judging, assessing service, ambience, X factor and, most importantly, the food before awarding those all-important hats," said Good Food Guide Co-Editor Myffy Rigby.

"With the Guide going national in 2018, it's been great to expand our scope to recognise restaurants, bars, cafes and chefs throughout Australia," said Good Food Guide Co-Editor Roslyn Grundy.

"Hatted restaurants deliver not only outstanding food and service but they also contribute to local economies, tourism and culture, so it's great to be shining a spotlight on top dining destinations throughout Australia," added Roslyn Grundy.